Equine Assisted Services minor provides students with instruction in horsemanship, horse care, and wellness, as well as a preliminary introduction to using horses for therapy and emotional healing.
Students will build their portfolio toward certification as a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. With certification, students can organize camps and programs that assist various community groups.
The first horsemanship courses focus on handling, caring for, and riding horses, while later courses teach advanced students how to instruct others. As part of a diverse curriculum, students will also learn about human development, disability care, and basic therapeutic techniques. These courses further prepare students to care for people and animals, as well as to care for people through animals.
The Equine Assisted Services minor is a great fit with a major in psychology, education, social work, exercise science, and more.
Why GU
Experienced Staff
Learn from experienced staff with over 20+ years of experience in horse training and instructing. Program director, Elizabeth Bays, is certified in natural horsemanship training, riding instruction, clinics & personal coaching.
Service Opportunities
You will participate in equestrian-related service opportunities around Greenville and other communities.
Portfolio Development
Develop a portfolio that will lead to certification as a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor​.